Enabling HF Mesh Networking at Scale

In this SBIR, WPL is developing an innovative, multicarrier wideband HF data link that will form the foundation of a mesh network that could be deployed at scale across the continental United States as a dependable SATCOM failover. In Phase I, we used extensive modeling and simulation to demonstrate that our design can reliably deliver 300+ kbps over 1200+ mile mid-latitude circuits with COTS antennas. Each carrier in our design can be distributed anywhere within 3 – 30 MHz according to spectrum availability and ionospheric conditions. In Phase II, we will implement and validate our HF data link protocols and algorithms in a COTS software defined radio platform. Extensive bench testing and an over-the-horizon wideband field test will be used to validate model predictions for peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) reduction, spectral containment, bit error rate, throughput, range, link budget, and sunspot impact. In parallel to that effort, a high-fidelity NS-3 simulation platform will be used to demonstrate channel access and resilient multipath routing protocols for a CONUS-scale mesh network that could run over our 300+ kbps HF data link. This aspect of the Phase II effort will leverage the Intrinsically Resilient Overlay Network (IRON) technology from our partners at Raytheon